SHARES

The coronavirus pandemic has put life on pause for many communities around the world.
Meanwhile, cherry blossoms, often celebrated as a symbol of spring and renewal, are in full bloom.
Cherry blossoms typically peak in mid-March and early April and tend to draw visitors to hotspots like Washington DC, and cities in Japan, Germany, and South Korea.
This year, quarantine and social distancing restrictions have caused most local officials to cancel cherry blossom festivals and even close or restrict access to parks.
Photos from around the world show what this year's cherry blossom season looks like, featuring many empty or unusually quiet streets, gardens, and landmarks that are typically filled with people admiring the pink flowers.
 
Washington, DC, is known for its cherry blossoms, but its annual Cherry Blossom Festival was canceled.
 
DC officials have blocked off some areas around the Tidal Basin, a popular cherry blossom viewing spot in the nation's capital.
 
All around the world, popular landmarks that are surrounded by the stunning flowers remain eerily quiet.
 
Ueno Park, a large public park in Tokyo, has barred visitors from enjoying the pastel blossoms.
 
Stockholm's Kungstradgarden, or King's Garden, looked quiet with just a few locals enjoying the blossoms on April 1.
 
Steps outside the Kotokuin Temple and Great Buddha in Tokyo were dotted with just a few visitors on April 1.
 
Aerial images showed cherry blossoms come to life in Wuhan, China in mid-March.